Selling a House During the Holidays: Showings, Decorations, and Scheduling

Quick answer: Keep the decorating light, make showings easy to schedule, and tell your agent about your travel plans early. Those three things cover most of what goes wrong with holiday listings.

Decorating Without Hiding the House

Buyers are trying to picture the rooms. Decorations that crowd a room or cover surfaces make that harder. A wreath on the door, a simple arrangement on the table, and warm lighting are enough. Skip the oversized displays, and clear anything that blocks a walkway or a window.

Photos taken with heavy decorations tend to date the listing, which matters if the house is still on the market in February. If you are photographing in December, ask your photographer how they handle seasonal items.

Making Showings Easy

Holiday schedules are unpredictable, and buyers will ask for showings at unusual times. The easier you make it, the more of them happen. If you have a lockbox and flexible notice, tell your agent so they can say yes quickly.

If you will be away, say so before the listing goes live. Your agent can plan around it, whether that means a trusted contact, a showing service, or a pause on showings.

Keep the House Ready Every Day

Holiday guests, packages, and extra coats pile up fast. Pick a daily routine: clear the entry, empty the dishwasher, wipe the counters. A house that is ready on short notice is easier to sell than one that needs an hour of work before each visit.

Winter Walkways

Clear the front steps and walkway of snow and ice before every showing. This matters for safety, and it also affects how the house feels on arrival.

Questions Sellers Ask

Should I put up a tree? A modest one is fine. The test is whether a buyer can still see the room and walk through it easily.

Can I refuse a showing on a holiday? You can set limits with your agent. Just be aware that each declined showing is a buyer who may not come back.

Want help planning a holiday listing? Call me at (321) 447-4259 or visit movewithricky.com.

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Rakesh (Ricky) Khanna | Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Realty Connect
Call or text: (321) 447-4259 | movewithricky.com